Srinagar: Omar Abdullah clarified his remarks on liquor sales in Jammu and Kashmir after criticism from opposition parties and leaders within his own alliance over the government’s stand on prohibition.
The controversy began after Omar Abdullah responded to questions from reporters about liquor prohibition. He said people consume alcohol by their own choice and that the government was not forcing anyone to visit liquor shops. The remarks triggered criticism on social media and from political parties, following which the Chief Minister issued a clarification on Sunday.
Omar Abdullah said the comments were made during a brief roadside media interaction and that his response was being misrepresented by political opponents. He stated that liquor outlets in Jammu and Kashmir function only for communities whose religion permits alcohol consumption and noted that no government in the region has imposed complete prohibition so far. He also reiterated that Islam prohibits alcohol and said the administration does not encourage drinking.
The Chief Minister said no new liquor outlets have been opened since the National Conference government assumed office in October. He added that existing liquor shops would not be allowed to function in residential areas in a manner that could negatively affect young people.
Iltija Mufti criticised Omar Abdullah’s clarification and said the argument that prohibition would affect the rights of non-Muslims was incorrect. She cited Gujarat and Bihar as examples of states where prohibition has been implemented.
Aga Ruhullah, the National Conference MP of Lok Sabha, representing Srinagar, also disagreed with the Chief Minister’s position and demanded complete prohibition in Jammu and Kashmir. He said the government should fulfil its election promise regarding the closure of liquor shops.